Public consultation on new vegetation clearing laws

The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is inviting public feedback on a draft Code of Practice for the new 10/50 vegetation clearing laws that will soon come into effect.

NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said the laws are designed to make it easier for people in designated areas to improve the safety of their homes.

"The new laws allow people to clear trees within ten metres of their home, and thin vegetation other than trees within 50 metres of their home," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

"It's important that when these laws come into effect in the near future that people in designated clearing areas understand their obligations.

"The Code of Practice outlines these responsibilities and now is the opportunity for all of the community to have a say on the Code."

The draft Code of Practice is available on the NSW RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.

Once the law comes into effect, the NSW RFS will have an online tool available on its website where people can check if they're in a designated 10/50 vegetation clearing area.

The tool will also let people check if there are any restrictions such as locations of cultural significance or due to the slope of their property.

The consultation period closes 21 July.

It is important that people remember that while the laws are expected to be in place before the coming bush fire season, they are not yet in force.

Until the laws are formalised, following the consultation period, existing rules and penalties apply.